Could Ottawa Be Canada’s Best City for IEC Participants?

A new Remitly report ranked the best cities in the world for Gen Z to move to in 2026, and Ottawa was the only Canadian city to land in the global top 10. It placed 8th out of more than 250 cities, with a score of 68.77 out of 100. The ranking considered factors like rent affordability, safety, LGBTQ+ equality, nightlife affordability, quality of life, average salary, and the share of residents aged 20 to 29. 

Many IEC participants first think of Toronto or Vancouver and, fair enough, they’re popular for a reason. But Ottawa ranked alongside cities like Copenhagen, Bern, Utrecht, and Bergen, putting Canada’s capital in very good company. For newcomers who want somewhere safe, welcoming, and easier to settle in, Ottawa could be a solid choice.

What Makes Ottawa Stand Out? 

Ottawa scored well in several areas that matter to young newcomers. According to the ranking, Ottawa scored as follows: 

• Safety index: 69

• LGBTQ+ equality: 79

• Average monthly net salary: around $5,500 CAD

• Nightlife affordability: 65.1

• Overall score: 68.77 out of 100 

Safety was a big one, and when you’re moving to a new country, that can make everyday life feel a lot less overwhelming. The city also scored one of the highest for LGBTQ+ equality, which points to Ottawa’s reputation as an inclusive and welcoming place to live. 

The report also pointed to Ottawa’s stable economy. Average monthly salaries were listed at around $5,500 CAD, which can help young workers build a stable life while gaining Canadian work experience. 

Another reason Ottawa stood out was the cost of going out. Compared to cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal, and Edmonton, Ottawa ranked better for nightlife affordability. That means IEC participants may find it easier to enjoy dinners, events, bars, and social activities without spending as much. 

For IEC participants comparing Canadian cities, these factors can really matter. That’s true whether you’re planning a Working Holiday, looking for a Canadian job offer through Young Professionals, or arranging an International Co-op internship as part of your studies. 

Other Canadian Cities Ranked in Global Top 50 

Ottawa was the only Canadian city to make the global top 10, but it was not the only Canadian city recognized in the ranking. Several other Canadian destinations also placed in the top 50. 

Calgary ranked 21st, making it a good choice for IEC participants who may be looking for a mix of city life, job opportunities, and access to outdoor activities. With the Canadian Rockies nearby, Calgary can appeal to newcomers who want both work experience and weekend adventures. 

Halifax ranked 22nd, just behind Calgary. As a smaller coastal city, Halifax may be attractive to IEC participants who want a friendly cultural hub, with plenty of music, arts, and cultural events, as well as a slower pace than Canada’s largest cities. 

Montreal ranked 28th, offering a very different experience. It is known for its culture, food, festivals, nightlife, and bilingual environment. For young people, especially Francophones, who want a lively and creative city, Montreal could be a good fit. 

Toronto ranked 39th, which may surprise some people because it is Canada’s most populated city and a major job hub. While Toronto offers many opportunities, its higher cost of living and competitive job market may make it more challenging for some IEC participants. 

Vancouver ranked 43rd, another popular choice for newcomers. It offers beautiful scenery, access to nature, and an attractive lifestyle appeal, but it can also be one of the more expensive cities in Canada. 

Together, these rankings show that there is no single “best” Canadian city for IEC participants. Ottawa may have earned the highest Canadian spot, but each city offers something different depending on your budget, career goals, lifestyle, and the kind of Canadian experience you want. 

What IEC Participants Should Take from This 

Ottawa might not always steal the spotlight like Canada’s more popular newcomer cities, but it offers a mix of safety, stability, inclusivity, and quality of life. It is also more affordable compared to Toronto or Vancouver, which tend to be top of mind for most young people planning a move to Canada. 

For International Experience Canada (IEC) participants, Ottawa could be a well-rounded place to start your Canadian adventure. It can allow you to explore and get settled without quite the same pressure you might feel in cities that attract larger newcomer crowds. And honestly, that breathing room can make all the difference when you’re finding your footing somewhere new.